What Is Christian Humanism?

In The Vision of the Soul: Truth, Goodness, and Beauty in the Western Tradition, I argued that the West's intellectual tradition may broadly be described as a Christian-Platonist one; the book insistently stretches the meaning of that term so that it is inclusive and comprehensive rather than setting up some alley's breadth specification.  Within that tradition, one position, or series of positions (and generally compelling ones at that) have long been called Christian Humanism.  In this little update, three recent publications attempt to clarify in tangential ways what it might mean to be a Christian Humanist.

First, I'm pleased to say, National Review has published my poem "Imitation" in its latest issue.  The poem, I think, says much about what makes us human and does so in response to the modern anti-humanism that has overtaken us long since.  Click the NR logo to read.

Second, the poet and critic Steven Knepper, who wrote the best review essay Some Permanent Things ever received, has followed up with a terrific new review of The Hanging God.  He follows Dana Gioia's suggestion that my work continues a high Christian Humanism, and that sounds good to me.  Click the University Bookman logo to read.  While I have your attention, please note that the Bookman will be hosting me for a poetry reading, in New York City, on March 28th.  See my lectures and events calendar on this same page for more details.

Third, and finally, I offer a more thorough account of Christian Humanism in my review essay on Matthew Mehan's new children's book, Mr. Mehan's Mildly Amusing Mythical Mammals, which has just been published in Catholic World Report.  Once again, click the CWR logo to read.